Alabama defeats Texas A&M in a shootout

Alabama and Texas A&M delivered one of the most dramatic games of the SEC season, a high‑octane shootout in Tuscaloosa that ended with the Crimson Tide outlasting the Aggies 100–97. The matchup featured relentless scoring, wild momentum swings, and a closing stretch that kept Coleman Coliseum on its feet until the final buzzer.

A Game Defined by Chaos and Shot‑Making

The numbers alone tell the story: 28 lead changes and 13 ties, with neither team able to create separation for more than a possession or two. Alabama leaned on its pace, perimeter shooting, and depth, while Texas A&M countered with physicality, second‑chance points, and timely buckets from its veteran core.

Every time the Tide appeared ready to pull away, the Aggies answered. Every time A&M seized momentum, Alabama responded with a run of its own. It was the kind of game where a single defensive stop felt like a luxury.

Holloway, Wrightsell, and Philon Lead the Tide

Freshman guard Aden Holloway delivered one of his most complete performances of the season, scoring 20 points and controlling the offense during critical stretches. His poise late in the game helped Alabama settle into its half‑court sets when the pace threatened to spiral.

The defining moment came from Latrell Wrightsell Jr., who buried the go‑ahead three‑pointer with just over a minute remaining. Wrightsell's shot broke a 97–97 tie and ultimately stood as the game‑winner after Alabama's defense forced a contested miss on A&M's final possession.

Labaron Philon added 17 points, continuing his emergence as one of the SEC's most dynamic young guards. His ability to attack off the dribble gave Alabama crucial scoring when the Aggies tightened their perimeter defense.

Texas A&M's Grit Keeps It Close

The Aggies entered the game at 17–5, and they played like a team determined to leave Tuscaloosa with a statement win. Rashaun Agee led A&M with 21 points, repeatedly punishing Alabama inside and keeping the Tide from controlling the paint.

A&M's physicality created problems all night, especially on the offensive glass. Their ability to generate second‑chance opportunities kept them within striking distance even when Alabama's offense caught fire.

In the final seconds, the Aggies had a clean look at a potential game‑tying three, but the shot rimmed out as the buzzer sounded.

Alabama Improves to 15–7 and Stays in the SEC Hunt

The win moves Alabama to 15–7 overall and 5–4 in SEC play, keeping the Tide firmly in the conference race as the season enters its most demanding stretch. The victory also reinforces Alabama's identity: a team that can score with anyone in the country but must continue tightening its defense to reach its ceiling.

Still, the resilience shown in a game this chaotic is the kind of trait that pays dividends in March.

What the Win Means Moving Forward

Alabama's offense remains one of the most explosive in college basketball, and performances like this highlight the depth of scoring options available to Nate Oats. Holloway's continued growth, Wrightsell's clutch shooting, and Philon's versatility give the Tide a backcourt capable of carrying them deep into postseason play.

The challenge ahead is consistency on the defensive end. Allowing 97 points at home is not sustainable, but the ability to win a game like this-where stops were scarce-shows toughness and composure under pressure.

With a rivalry matchup against Auburn looming, Alabama enters the weekend with momentum and renewed confidence.